A bold move by Wales' head coach Steve Tandy has sent shockwaves through the rugby world, with Ben Thomas becoming the most notable casualty. The axe has fallen, and it's a big one!
In a dramatic turn of events, Thomas, who has been a regular fixture in the Wales team, has been completely dropped from the squad. This comes after a disappointing performance against England, where Thomas and three other players were sin-binned, contributing to a heavy 48-7 defeat.
But here's where it gets controversial... Thomas' poor pass, which led to an English try, has seemingly been the final straw. Despite his consistent involvement in 16 out of the last 17 Tests, Tandy has decided to make a bold statement by removing him entirely.
And this is the part most people miss... Tandy's decision extends beyond Thomas. Starting openside Josh Macleod, back-row Harri Deaves, and hooker Liam Belcher have also been omitted. Tandy has opted for a strategic 5-3 split on the bench, bringing in Olly Cracknell at No.8 and shuffling the back row.
The second row remains unchanged, with Dafydd Jenkins and Adam Beard anchoring the scrum. Captain Dewi Lake will start at hooker, flanked by new props Rhys Carre and Tomas Francis, who makes his first start for Wales since the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
In the backs, Tomos Williams and Dan Edwards retain their places, while Thomas' replacement at inside centre is Joe Hawkins. Eddie James joins Hawkins in midfield, and the back three remains unaltered, featuring try-scorer Josh Adams and Ellis Mee on the wings, with Louis Rees-Zammit at full-back.
On the bench, Ryan Elias takes the hooker cover spot over Belcher, and Jarrod Evans provides additional backline cover.
The Wales team to face France: Louis Rees-Zammit; Ellis Mee, Eddie James, Joe Hawkins, Josh Adams; Dan Edwards, Tomos Williams; Rhys Carre, Dewi Lake (capt.), Tomas Francis, Dafydd Jenkins, Adam Beard, Aaron Wainwright, Alex Mann, Olly Cracknell.
Replacements: Ryan Elias, Nicky Smith, Archie Griffin, Ben Carter, Taine Plumtree, Kieran Hardy, Jarrod Evans, Mason Grady.
So, what do you think? Is Tandy's bold move a sign of a fresh start, or a risky strategy? Weigh in with your thoughts in the comments below!
